Title: Effects of Binder Materials on the Properties of Polystyrene Aggregate Concrete

Author(s): R. Sri Ravindrarajah, V. DiFalco, and S. Surian

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 229

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 33-48

Keywords: blast-furnace slag; cement; creep; curing; fly ash; modulus; polystyrene beads; shrinkage; strength

DOI: 10.14359/14727

Date: 9/1/2005

Abstract:
Lightweight concrete could be producing by incorporating expanded polystyrene in the conventional concrete. This paper discusses the results of an experimental investigation into the effects of binder materials on the engineering properties of polystyrene aggregate concrete (PAC), having the nominal density of 1800 kg/m3. Four types of binders, namely, general purpose cement, shrinkage limited cement, a combination of 60% general purpose cement and 40% low calcium fly ash, and blended cement with 62% granulated blast-furnace slag, were used. The results showed that as expected, the use of supplementary cementitious materials such as fly ash and slag reduced the early-age strength of the polystyrene aggregate concrete. The strength development of PAC was also affected by the curing condition. Although the use of shrinkage limited cement reduced the shrinkage of PAC by 12%, it increased the creep potential by 76%. The paper also discusses the relationships between: shrinkage and moisture loss; strength and rebound number; and strength and pulse velocity.